Tex-Mex Queso Fundido with Chorizo

About this recipe

Tex-Mex Queso Fundido with Chorizo is one of the most popular appetizers in Mexican restaurants across the United States: yellow melted cheese with fried Mexican chorizo, jalapeños, and sometimes roasted peppers, served sizzling in a cast-iron skillet. Unlike Oaxacan queso fundido, which uses Chihuahua or Oaxacan cheese, the Tex-Mex version uses American yellow cheese (cheddar or processed cheese) for a creamier, more fluid consistency. It is served with warm flour tortillas for dipping.

1. 1

   In a cast-iron skillet (or ovenproof skillet), cook the Mexican chorizo over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until fully cooked. Remove excess fat with a spoon but leave about 1 tablespoon for flavor.

   💡 Fresh Mexican-style chorizo is essential; Spanish cured chorizo changes the dish entirely.

2. 2

   Add the sliced jalapeños and diced pepper to the skillet. Fry for 2 minutes.

3. 3

   Preheat the oven to 200°C (grill/broiler setting). Distribute the grated or cubed cheese evenly over the chorizo in the skillet.

   💡 For a more fluid texture use processed cheese. For more flavor, use mature cheddar.

4. 4

   Place the skillet under the broiler for 4–5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and beginning to bubble at the edges.

5. 5

   Remove from the oven carefully (the cast-iron handle will be extremely hot). Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve immediately with warm flour tortillas.

   💡 Warning! The cast-iron skillet retains heat for a long time. Use a tea towel or oven glove.